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ON THE 



EducoMfffC^ Children ; 



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THE DUTIES/OP CIVIL LIFE 




BY 5Al>m^ BWTT. 




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PEXNTED BY SAMUEL T700D & SONS, 

KO. S5T, FEABl-STBEET, 







Observations on Education, 

THE objVQK)f the followiDg coraj||etiQ.nJJ|#r such it princi- 
pally is.) is to co^^ey.Jn a concise manner, some ideas on the in- 
terei^ting subject of* •bducSit^ojB^Cw.iptii cu I arl v to such as have not 
had the o[)portunity of reading larger Avorks ; nor, perhaps, some 
of thf-m gained raue-h instruction from the mode in wliich them- 
selves were educate!^ and therefore, though desirous of discharg- 
ing their ^jKty to -^e^^^^^^^^fc^ of their offspring, yet find them- 
selves at a loss ho\X to dc»it. These probably will stand open at 
'^ least to examine what is said. And in reading, it i» hoped will 
jrake the necessary allowance for repetitions, as they could not well 
be avoided in making a selection from different authors. 

Great, and very important is the charge of educating children. 
The lively sensiljility of fond parent*?, whilst it awakens many fearg 
of failure on their part, will also animate them to encounter dif- 
ficuilies. They will scrutinize their own conduct, disposition and 
opinions, in order to estafelisk their own precepts. To do which, 
strict sell-government is necessary"? as every (Ifeviation from rea- 
son ^nd justice, has a tendency to injure the temper, and weaken 
the integrity cji'the^o^jeft^s oftheir solicitude --^f the child see the 
parent in a passion, it "will naturally indulge in the like disposi- 
tion. And so with respect to'every other deviation from rectitude 
of conduct. 

Reason and tb.e nature of things, show the necessity of early res- 
traint, as w«ll as culture. To effect this, andl 
•iency over c}i4'klren,it is necessary carefully 
ilulgenceon one hand, and debasing severitj 

When a child is capable, of being reasone- , 

iainly to be treated as a rational creaturev But there is a time 
when habits of obedience. niay he formed, before the understanding 
is sufficiently enlarged to be iafluenced by reasoning. The first in- 
clination a child discovers, is th6 gratification of will. The first 
business therefore of education is its subjection. And this may be 
often done earlier than -most parents are aware of An infant 
will reach out its hand to take something improper for it to have j 
if its hand is then withheld, and the countenance and expression of 
the parent refuse the indulgence, unmoved by its cries or struggles, 
It will soon learn to yield. And by uniformly experiencing sithi- 
lar treatn^nt, whenever its wishes ought not to be gratified, sub- 
mission will hecom,^ familiar aivd easy. Aad as children advance / 




m'^ 



in age, parents, by an easy mode of conrersiog with them, and 
adapting their laoguage to age and capacity, acriui re al:n()^t un* 
bounded influence over them. ■ Some of tlie most iiuprej^sive iepsons 
children receive, are conveyed in this simple mode of instruction. 
And if parents were careful to cultivate the young mind from the 
first dawn of reason ; watching every opportunity of communicat- 
ing instruction ; instilling correct ideas, and always careful that 
example corresponded with precept ; at the same time seekiiig a 
divine blessing on their humble endeavours ; we may saf* ly believe, 
they would rarely be disappointed in having their chiidien grow up 
around them, all that they could reasonably desire. How exquisite 
must be the delight in rellecting, that our patient superin.tondence 
has prevented eiTOfs in our offspring, which would have endanger- 
ed the virtue and felicity of their whole existence. # 

Toobtaino^r children an ascendency which imprints respect, 
an^^JSpSSSfoiSedience, is of the utmost moment. But let it be 
remembered, that scolding, threats, or a harsh tone of vo'ce, do not 
procure it. It is gained by even, steady, firm, moderate treatment, 
accompanied by a disposition of mind, «o master of itself, as to be 

» governed by reason and judgment ; and never to act by passion or 
fancy. Persevering, yet gentle firmness, begun in infancy, estab- 
lishes proper discipline, procures obedience, and prevents almost all 
punishment. When, on the contrary, by improper indulgence in 
infancy, a child's will becomes incorrigible ; and then severity is 
resorted to in order to bring into subjection. Consequently, the 
sooner a child is brought into subjection, the better for it, and 
easier for the parent. 

As soon as the faculties of the infant mind begin to open and 
expand, children are curious and inquisitive. The objects around 
them affect their senses, and induce them to ask a variety of ques- 
tions. And it is at this period that they are ready to believe every 
thing they hear. How much then does it concern those who have 
the management of them, to guard against their unsuspecting 
rainds being imposed upon by the infusion of incorrect ideas. But 
<Jo not parents too often open the way for their being thus impos- 
ed upon ? For although when children begin to unfold their ideas, 
by expressing their thoughts in words, we listen eagerly to their 
simple observations, and are delighted with them ; yet, it too often 
happens that what was at first delightful, soon beconips tiresome ; 

^j^and instead of meeting with encouragement for every attempt to ex- 
press an idea, they are soon repulsed for troublesome talkativeness, 
even wlii»n they talk sense, they are suffered to talk unhearii, or 
are checked for unbecoming presumption. T^ius we deter tbein from 
communicating their thoughts, and preclude ourselves the oppor- 
tunity of affording them that information they need, and which it is 
our duty to give. Childi-en feel this change^severely ; and they are apt 
it become shy, silent, and feserved towards their parents, and en- 
deavour to console themselves with children of their own age, or 
complaisant servants, who are incapable of becoming their useful 
instructors. Would it not be more prudent to continue our atten- 
tion, and listen to their childish inquiries, and not suffer even their* 
frivolous prattle to interrupt us ? Very different is this encourage- 
ing freedom in answering their inquiries, from gratifying their 
gelf-wjll and unreaspnable deraandf*. 



Gratification of will, is encouraged by frequent indulgence of their 
improper desires, and thereby every notion of happiness becomes 
connected therewith ; and the idea of misery with that of disap- 
pointment. Thus an over regard for personal ease, and personal 
gratification, is implanted in the mind, and selfishness too frequent- 
ly becomes the predominant feature in the character ; and anger, 
peevishness, and pride are the products. For, by improper indul- 
gence, self-will grows so rapidly, that a capricious humour is its 
unavoidable consequence. The passions so act and react upoa 
each other, that the frequent gratification of will, engenders pride, 
and pride augments the desire of gratifying the will till it becomes 
insatiable. Many are the tyrannical husbands and fathers, and 
turbulent wives and mothers that have been formed by an educa- 
tion iniftvhich the will has never known subjection. For, as too 
much indulgence increases selfishness ; so certainly does the spi- 
rit of selfishness occasion miseries in domestic life. ." ^,' 

May we not appeal to the parents, as well as persons who Kav« 
lived with a family of spoiled children, for a sanction to the as- 
sertion, that the gratification of the will, has been productive of 
Biisery ? 

But, in endeavouring to avoid improper indulgence, let us be- 
ware of severity. For if the first strengthens self-will, and engen- 
ders pride and self-importance ; the other imbitters present exis- 
tence, and strikes at the root of the most valuable social virtues : 
and while it spoils the temper, so enfeebles the mind, as to repress 
tlip proper spirits necessary in transactions of any consequence in 
manhood. 

That respect to the superior wisdom of a parent, which consti- 
tutes awe, and is obtained by uniting gentleness with firmness, is 
a salutai-y feeling to keep the volatile disposition of children with- 
in due bounds. But it differs widely either from the respect ac- 
companying the self-will consequent on uncontrolled indulgence; 
or K fear produced by an abject restraint, that benumbs every noble 
energy of the mind. 

Where the dread of punishment predominates, the dii^position is 
generally artful : and the fear which is produced by severity, 
prompts children not so much to avoid faults, as to elude detection 
by base subterfuges, that still more incurably deprave the heart. 
These are too often the consequences of inflicting punishment 
instead of inculcating the love of virtue. 

' Indeed, timid childhood can hardly resist the temptation terror 
holds out to them, of endeavouring to hide offences if possible. 
And though severity should extort confession, and promise of 
strict obedience ; it is not calculated to produce sincere repentance, 
or awaken virtuous thoughts, nor *does it implant any principle to 
hinder the child from committing a similar fault in our absence. 
Its self-will may indeed be made sullenly to submit to superior 
strength forcibly exerted ; but it will remain unsub^cted. And 
the odious, and much to be dreaded spirit of revenge, by this kind- 
of treatment, is often generated. To secure comfort to parents, ovm\ 
real benefit to their children, obedience must flow from proper If 
motives. And correction, to prove effectual, must be applied to the 
mind. To shew children we are deeply afflicted, not enraged at 
their misconduct, tends to awaken their feelings, and bring into 



action their reason, and is a Much more probable means of reclaim- 
ing them from evil, than the frequent recurrence of the agitating 
severity of the rod, which irritates the disposition, but rarely con- 
vinces the judgment. 

It may be objected, that Solomon hath said, " he that gpareth the 
rod, hateth his son." And there is cause to believe, that many 
parents, teachers and masters have sacrificed their own natural 
feelings and tenderness, to this figurative precept, and thus caused 
much of the falsehood, meanness and inconsistency imputed t« 
those who feel themselves dependant on the will of others. 

A greater than Solomon hath most expressly commanded, 
*' take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye 
shall drink ;" and yet no rational being literally obeys this injunc- 
tion, or considers it prohibiting the necessary care and thought to 
preserve life, by providing the necessary requisites. Let Solomon** 
maxim therefore be understood as a strong eastern figure, to en- 
join an early and careful restraint on every bad propensity. It is 
instruction, not arbitraiy punishment that must aid children in gov- 
erning their own inclinations and emotions. Blan?^le actions 
should be rebuked, but if it is done in love, without wrath or vio- 
lence, false excuses or contrivances to hide what may have been 
done amiss, would seldom be thought of If parents were fully 
aware of the danger attendant on extinguishing the glimmering 
light of rectitude in their children, how consciexsliously would they 
suppress wrath in themselves, and govern by reason and aflfection ; 
for it is scarcely possible even to express displeasure with sufficient 
propriety, when a person is in a passion ; especially to a child, 
whom we aim to instruct by what we say to him. 

When mild, but decided measures are pursued in education, 
young children will seldom need greater punishment than con- 
finement, or being deprived of some amusement or pleasure, to 
curb their passions. They will probably cry when this sentence 
is put in force, but their tears should be disregarded, till they are 
submissive. And they ought always to be confined in sight, and 
never where there is danger of their being aflTrighted, for this is 
what ought to be particularly guarded against. Fear probably is 
sometimes a constitutional defect ; yet it is believed, is oftener an 
acquired one, and has a sufficient claim upon our attention, to en. 
deavour to prevent it. To hinder children from touching what 
is hurtful, other means may be used than telling them it will biit 
them. And making it a constant rule, never to give them what 
they cry for, will be found a far more efficacious remedy, than to 
pall for the old man or mad dog, who are to came down chimney for 
naughty children. 

And it may not be improper here, to recur to a well known 
fact, as a proof that impressions made on the mind in early life 
are generally lasting. There are many sensible persons, who are 
through life, slaves to the terror of darkness, from their having 
been unguardedly frightened w hen children, by the foolish stories 
of ghosts and apparitions being seen in the dark. Here ghosts 
and darkness, are associated together in infancy and forcibly im- 
pressed by the passion of fear. And though reason in riper age, has 
pointed out the absurdity, it has not always been able to extirpate 
the fear. It is therefore highly necessary to guard against chi4- 
iren*n hearing such ridiculous tales related. 



, Among the many disadvantages attending severe mcasnreg, 
in training up children, one is, parents too generally trust to the 
effects of chastisement, and are deficient in that uniform superin- 
tendence, mild restraints, and seasonable ^lerfuasive advice and 
caution, en which the forming right habits, almost entirely depends. 
Children v/hen subjected to severity, often obtain more pernicious 
indulgences, and take more dangerous liberties, than those who 
are moderately curbed, and gently instructed. The keen temper 
that transports to harsh extremes, is often accompanied by strong 
affections ; and when anger has subsided, tlie parent is sorry for 
having gone go far ; the.-i t^^o much liberty suc^.eeds, till another 
fault, originating perhaps in parental negligence or idleness, or 
both, di-aw3 on the child another unprofitable punishment. And 
•thus the continued crossing the humours that have been indulged,, 
can hanliy fail to call forth resentment, anger, sullenness, or obsti- 
nate perverseness. And as the frequent recurrence of anger or re- 
sentment, tends to beget hatred and illwill, the disposition to ben- 
evolence is destroyed, and that of malevolence is introduced in its 
room. WjfkTB there no other ill consequences in austerity, than 
giving a disgust to home, and the probable consequence of their 
children's asisociating with company abroad, and perhaps not the 
most discreet ; it ought to guard parents against it- 
It is unquestionable, that whatever tends to debase or harden, 
though it may restrain in single instances, can have no good effect 
in regulating the conduct in general. 

But some may say, are we totally to exclude the rod ? No. 
But it should be used very sparingly, and with great discretion and 
judgment. Never passionately or in anger : and the instances 
tvherein it is necessary on children capable of being reasoned with, 
will be very few, unless parents have been previously deficient in 
their duty. And will it be likely to benefit the child to whip it 
for the parent's neglect ? 

According tqthe wise provision of Providence, the fond endear- 
ment of parental love produces an attachment in the breast of the 
child ; a judicious parent will take advantage of this circumstance, 
to lay a Jbundation for that entire freedom which ought ever to ex- 
ist between parents and children. If confidence has been early 
invited, by endearing affability, and established by prudence, re- 
serve in the child will seldom have place in maturer years. 

When children are accustomed to unbosom themselves, and un- 
reservedly reveal their wishes to the parental friend, who is most 
interested in their welfare, what advantages must result to them, 
and what pleasure to the parent ! And there is no fear of losing 
respect by familiarity, it is by that we gain their confidence, and 
thus learn to cure their faults. 

Young people who are treated as companions, by judicious and 
communicative parents, are seldom addicted to degrading prac- 
tices. They will even forego many indulgences to avoid displeas- 
ing or giving them pain. And as they can freely tell their schemes 
to their liberal minded parents, these may thereby discover incli- 
nations in the child to caution against, which might save it from 
many entanglements. 

And there are few young people so void of sense, as not to avail 
themselves of parentaj advice ajid experience, if not discouraged 



fcy want of freedom in the parents. But Jet it not be forgotten, 
that if we wouhl have children unbosom their thoug^itji to na, (heir 
confidence must be invited by kindness and condescension. Not a 
condescension to improper indulgences, but a kind that increases 
parental influence in right government. 

It is by enlightening the understanding, that young persons are 
brought to feel the true ground of parental authority. Injunctions 
and restraints are necessary in youth ; btit if they are softened by 
endearment, will generally find returns of obedience. And un- 
grateful claims to liberty will rarely oppose parental advice, bes- 
towed with mildness. But neglect or hard Usage on the one hand, 
®r inconsiderate liberty on the other, vitiates t"he heart; and un- 
amiable propensities become habitual. Innumerable preventive 
cares, and small attentions, in forming good habits, are indispensa- 
ble in those who superintend infancy ami youth. Much misery 
may be prevented by successive and seemingly trivail etforts to im- 
press the tender mind with clearly defined perceptions of right 
and wrong. 

As soon as a child clearly understands what is said to him, he 
should, in a mild, gentle, but firm manner, be let know his duty, 
and what his parents will expect of him, and among other things, 
that he will never obtain his desire by ill humour, or crying ; but 
that if he asks pleasantly for what is suitable, it will be granted 
him. This method steadily pursued, would tend greatly to pre- 
vent that freting, crying, importuning disposition which we often 
^e in children, in order to obtain what they desire. When chil- 
dren discover, that tears and murmurs have no effect, they soon 
become manageable, and acquire a habitual command over them- 
selves. 

A child accustomed to have what he cries for, will sometimes cry 
for things a parent may not choose to give ; and persevere in crying, 
till he exhausts the patience of the parent, and then he is whipped. 
Thus people first indulge children, and then chastise them for the 
natural consequence of that indulgence ; and it is perhaps difhcult 
to say which injures the temper most. Don't touch this ! don't do 
that ! are frequent injunctions of a parent, who, nevertheless, 
permits either to be done with impunity, till some petty mischief is 
done, though the child was not able to make the distinction, and 
then he is again whipped ; and to this whipping do parents sometimes 
appeal as a testimony, that they do not spoil the child. By an 
early habit of implicit obedience, and a fixed determination not to 
grant a child what it cries for, in order to prevent its crying, and 
of course, the occasion of all this whipping ; would not the parent 
as well as the child be happier ? 

By diminishing temptations to do wrong, we act more humanely 
than by multiplying restraints and punishments. Hence the pro- 
priety of but few prohibitions, and these judicious, but decisive ; 
such as we can steadily persevere to enforce. If we are not ex- 
act m requiring obedience, we shall never obtain it, either by per- 
suasion or authority. Parents' word should be considered a law; 
and when made so from early infancy, it will not often be con. 
troverted. The will of the child will become habitually subordi- 
nate to the will of the parents, and obedience rendered natural and 
easy. This requires eteadinesi and self comaand : and without 



these, there is very little hope, that the education of a child will 
ever be conducted upon consistent principles. 

I will here relate a circumstance as stated by a female writer on 
the subject of education : " One morning" says she, *' as I entered 
the drawing room of my friend, I found the little group of cherubs 
at high play around their fond mother, who was encouraging their 
sportive vivacity, which was at that time noisy enough ; but which, 
on ray entrance, she hushed into silence by a single word. No bad 
humour followed, but as the spirits which had been elevated by the 
preceding amusement, could not at once sink into a state of ac- 
quiescence, the judicious mother did not require what she knew 
could not without difficulty be complied with ; but calmly ad- 
dressing them, gave the choice of remaining in the room, without 
making any noise, or of going to their own apartment. The 
eldest and youngest of the foar prefered the former, while the two 
others went away to the nursery. Those who staid with us, amus- 
ed themselves by cutting paper in a corner, without giving any in< 
terruption to our conversation. I begged to know by what art 
she attained such a perfect government of her children's wills and 
actions. By n* art, returned this excellent parent, but that of 
teaching them from the very cradle an implicit submission. Having 
never once been permitted to disobey me, they have no idea of at- 
tempting it. But you see, I always give them a choice, when it 
can be done with propriety ; if it cannot, whatever I say, they 
Inow to be law, like that of the Medes and Persians, which alter- 
cth not." 

How widely different, and how much more advantageous to 
children, as well as comfortable to parents is this kind of treatment, 
than that rigid strictness which produces slavish fear ; or that un* 
warrantable indulging the humours of childiLa, which deprives 
parents of any proper control over them. Pure affection is so di- 
rected to the happiness of the child as to lead out of both these 
extremes. And while it endeavours by kindness and love, to pre- 
vent any thing like forced obedience, it also guards against that 
tind of liberty by which it loses its right authority. 

But it is sorrowfully observed, that while some children do not 
receive a comfortable attendance, there are others who by being im- 
properly waited upon, their humours gratified, and becoming the ob- 
jects of attention to a whole family, form such an idea of their 
own consequence, as even to assume the arrogance of command : 
and, if disobeyed, neglected or disappointed, will burst into a pas- 
sion, and scream with rage and disappointment. Thus have the 
seeds of pride and self-will been sowii in the infant heart. On the 
contrary, if a child is occasionally made to feel its weakess and 
wants, it learns to accept the services of others as a favour, which 
inspires love and gratitude. 

Great indeed is the responsibility of parents, as well as the vigi- 
lance necessary in managing their offspring: Children are lia- 
ble to many irregular desires, and wrong propensities ; to aid them 
in resisting and subduing these, must be the constajit care of those 
who educate them. 

Among other evil propensities, lying is an odious one, and every 
precaution should be used to prevent it. They should have the 
«sample of our own invariable regard for truth ; make them oo 



promises whicli we Jo not scrupulously perfomi : use no threaten- 
ings unless we intend to exact the penalty; be careful about ques- 
tioning them in any circumstances, untler which it is their interest 
to deviate ft'om truth ; nor require of them promises, which we have 
reason to believe they will fail in performing. But if after all our 
precaution, we find habits of falsehood in young children, we must 
endeavour to break thera. Let us begin by removing the tempta- 
tion to it, whatever It maybe. For instance, if the child has the 
habit of denying things which he has done, it will be prudent not 
to question him about them. Proper commendation and expres- 
sions of affection when he does speak truth, will be likely to oper- 
ate in breaking his habits of equivocotion, more effectually thaa 
much use of the rod. 

When the propensity to falsehood is in a child more advanced, 
perhaps the best method to cure it, is by explaining in a few forci- 
ble words, not only the evil, but the folly of an offence, which de- 
prives him who is guilty of it of our confidenca, and debases hia 
character : that irr doing it, he commits a greater crime to hide a 
smaller one ; that he has notliing to hope from telling a falsehoody 
nor any thing to fear from speaking truth. 

Talebearing is a habit attended with degrading and injurious^ 
consequences, and seldom fails to produce censoriouaness and false- 
hood. Children should be strietly guarded againit it, both by 
precept andexample ; and early taught not speak to the disadvau" 
tage of any person. 

An early and deep rooted' sense of justice, strict justice, is the 
proper soil wherein to nourish every moral virtue : and therefore 
should claim the constant care of parents assiduously to instil its 
importance into the tender minds of their children. The feel- 
ings of bevenolence will never be uniform, nor extensive in their 
eperations, unless they are supported by a strong sense of justice. 
For this end, the necessity and propriety of practising on all occa- 
sions, the most scrupulous integrity, liberality, fair dealing, and 
honour, consistent with the rule ofdoing unto others, on all OGca" 
sions as they vi^ould be done unto, ought to be early and forcibly 
inculcated, by precept andexample. Far from indulging a smile 
at any instance of selfish dexterity, they should see that we view it 
with detestation. A.nd. as opportunities of inculcating the necessi- 
ty and propriety of doing to others as we would hav^ others do to 
us, frequently occur, they ought not to be passed by in silence. 
When a child- has received an act of kimlness or generoHty, an ap- 
peal ought instantly to be made to his feelings, and the duty of 
contributing in a similar manner, to the happiness of others, en- 
forced at the moment when the mindis in a proper tone for the ex- 
ercise of the sympathetic feelings. 

To establish an habitual regard to the principles of honesty, a 
child should not be permitted to pick up the smallest article, with- 
out inquiring to whom it belongs. This easy rule, and asking 
leave before they take ajiy thing, even when very young, will give 
them a strong regard to the property of others. To habituate 
©hildren to ask permission, is equivaieut to seeking advice in more, 
advanced years. 

A.nd here I will just advert to that unjustifiable inquisitivenes& 
^&t leads to listening at doors, peeping into letters, and other; 



10 

mean devices to gain intelligence : it ought to be positively for- 
bidden, and they taught an abhorrence of all indirect means of satis- 
fying their curiosity : and that they ought not even to look at 
the contents of an open letter without liberty : nor indeed of any 
other writing that does not belong to them. 

They ought to be taught to set a high value upon time ; to con- 
sider that it cannot be recalled, and that there is but a limited por- 
tion of that precious possession for all they have to perform. The 
principle of responsibility for the right use of both time and proper- 
ty should be carefully impressed on the youthful mind. That each 
was given them for the good of others, as well as their own benefit. 

Whatever tends to inspire children with a high opinion of their 
own comparative importance, or annexes to any situation in life, 
ideas of contempt, will certainly counteract our designs of inspiring 
them with humjlity. The contemptible light in which some chil- 
dren are taughFxonsider servants or hired laborers, and the liberty 
they in consequence thereof take, in speaking with a commanding 
tone of voice, or behaving with haughtiness toward these, or in- 
civility to others whom they consider their inferiors ; will at an 
early age produce this high opinion of their own importance. 
While, on the other hand, some by an unguarded freedom and fam- 
iliarity with hired people or servants of low character, and per- 
haps immoral conduct, suflFer very great loss, if not utter ruin. 
Great is the difficulty of keeping children from these dangers ; and 
still greater is the duty of parents, to obey the call of principle in 
their domestic regulations ; first by not suffering their children any 
commanding authoVity, or imperious behaviour, nor yet a danger* 
ous familiarity with people they employ. And then, by consider-* 
ing the moral qualities of people they do employ in their families, 
no less important than their abilities. To find such may be at- 
tended with some difficulty, and probably extra expense ; but 
would it not be preferable for our childrpn's sake, to endeavour 
to get people of good character and conduct in our'families, even if less 
qualifiedforbusinessthanthoseof bad example and greater abilities 
though it should cost us some exertion, as well as saerificeof property ? 
But it is apprehended, that if more care were taken properly to in- 
struct and inculcate right principles, both by precept and example, 
and a suitable school education given to children we take to bring 
up, there would be less cause for complaint of difficulty to find 
suitable persons to en^ploy in our families. 

Early admonish children, not intentionally to spoil the most 
trifling article, or waste the least property, as both may be useful 
to poor people. Thus they will learn to save upon a principle of 
benevolence, and not from, selfish or sordid motives. And as 
commiseration and laenevolence are amiable virtues, they ought 
early to be cultivated. To give these feelings a right direction, 
they should be exercised in good deeds, which require some effort. 
Tbey may be taught to take care ©f shoes, and other clothing, when 
j^ast their use, that they n>ay relieve with them the wants of 
f oor little boys and girls, who have only such charitable supplies 
to defend them from the cold. And even encouraged to give up 
§ratifica*tion for the sake of dedicating to benevolent purposes, the 
i»oney wbicli these ii>dulgences might have required. And it wilt 
iave a much better effect on them, than large gifts obtained frai» 
j«j-eBtai iiberality, and distribated without trouble or relectiom 



11 

To accustom children to industry, is a necessary part of educa» 
lion. If indulged in idleness when young, it will afterwards make 
xtpplication to business more irksome. But while parents use 
proper means to fit their children for labour, and the valuable do- 
mestic arts, they should not lose sight of qualifying them to en- 
joy its fruits, by engaging manners, and a cultivated understand- 
ing ; and thereby prepare them for the necessary intercourse with 
mankind. A young woman who makes and repairs her own 
clothing ; who has been made acquainted with every particular 
circumstance of a servant's duty, and takes an active part in family 
concerns, is careful to prevent waste, or carelessness in others ; 
will be respectable and useful in her father's family, and particular- 
ly so in a married state ; where she combines frugality with plenty, 
retrenching superfluous cost and decoration ; and thus is fitted to 
meet adverse as well as prosperous circumstances. When domes- 
tic economy is viewed in this light, is there a woman that will dis- 
dain to rank it among her accomplishments? Or a sensible man 
who will not prize in his wife a capacity of acting as his unassum- 
ing counsellor, and of properly managing his household affairs ? 

Competent skill in the management of a family, and in the care 
©f children, is far more essential, than all the elegant arts, on which 
so much time, expense and anxiety, are by some bestowed. That 
part of education which prepares young people to act with readi- 
ness and decision in common affairs, is of inestimable value. 

Youth who are necessitated to procure their subsistence by indus" 
try, and are thereby prevented the opportunity of much literary 
instruction, should be pressingly encouraged to fill up their leisure- 
hours in improving their minds, by reading well chosen books, 
which will not only have this tendency, but be a means of keeping 
them out of unprofitable company. Whatever may be our occupa- 
tion in life, there is in an upright, liberal, benevolent, and cultivated 
mind, an inherent dignity, that will meet with esteem from aU 
whose opinion deserves to be regarded. 

People whose circumstances or situation make it necessary, may^ 
by giving to the eldest daughter a suitable education, have a large 
family get - their literary instruction at a moderate expense. A 
thoughtful, sensible girl will double her diligence to become capa- 
ble of benefiting her brothers and sisters, and, animated by affection^ 
she will not find such exertions laborious. 

When children arrive at an age suitable to have the care of their 
clothes and other things, to furnish each with a place for their lit- 
tle articles ; and being often told it i^ disgraceful to be disor- 
derly, they will soon imbibe these opinions, and see the propriety 
not only as it respects neatness of clothipg, but of putting every 
article they use in doing their business, in its proper place when 
done with. Thus, regularity will become as easy, and more agreea- 
ble than irregularity. The habit of order and method h important jAL^ 
to them, because the probability is, if early taught and gerzed, it Jr^''^'^ 
will accompany them through life; and prevent the inconvenience 
and perplexity, that people often experience for want of it in the 
management of their business. 

A boy whilst assisting his father at work, if treated with en- 
couraging kindness, will not soon forget the hints he may receive 
4a direct his future conduct and dealing with mankind : a daughter 



12 

treated in the same manner by her mother, will receive similar ad- 
vantages ill managing her domestic concerns. The advantage of 
interesting our children in our affairs, and discussing with theia 
such points as are proper to be laid before them, are known only 
by such as have profited by the respectful suggestions of filial 
counsel j and enjoyed the plea.'^ure of seeing their children improv- 
ed by the exercise of their judgment. 

And they ought to be admitted to table at meals ; and our hav- 
ing company should never prevent it, provided there is room ; by 
this privilege their manners will be improved, and they will learn 
from others^ how to conduct themselves ; and by that means get 
divested of that bashfulness which often produces great awkward- 
ness. 

We are apt to err in not attending sufficiently to bashful chil- 
dren, whilst the bold and lively are treated with smiles of appro- 
bation. Those who are too shy and backward, ought to be brought 
into that notice, which would convert bashfulness into becoming 
modesty. Frequently introducing them into the company of en- 
gaging friends and acquaintance, will tend to enable them to over- 
come this weakness. Indeed, the frequent introduction into com- 
pany from whose conversation and manners, they may gain in- 
struction, is of no small consequence to young people in general. 
For by a proper attention and desire to improve, they may attaiix 
a situation to set themselves down at ease with their superiors, and 
become agreeable companions. 

It is not only that bashful children are sometimes neglected, but 
that family affection which is the natural I'esult of chiidren*s bein^ 
from infancy educated upon sensible principles, is too often nipped 
in the bud, by partiality of parents. Where one or more of the child- 
Fen in a family are singled out as objects of particular regard, it sel- 
dom fails to produce pernicious consequences. In the favoured 
child, it lays the foundation for pride and self-importance. In the 
neglected one, it raises indignation, if not hatred ; unless he buries 
his sorrows in his own bosom, and suffers under deep discourage- 
ment. Whatever may be the motives assigned for partiality, par- 
ents must answer to the Judge of all the earth, for the sorrows and 
evils it produces. Concord in a family greatly depends on parents* 
management: but we have no right to expect it, where partiality 
is mailffest. la order to promote love and harmony among chil- 
dren, one ought not to be praised at the expense of another. No 
envious comparisons must be drawn* Children should not be al- 
lowed to scoff at one who happens to bean offender. This prafc. 
tice destroys affection, and gives rise to resentment and retaliation^ 
They should be iustract^d to feel for one another when in dis- 
grace, and not be prohibited from interceding. Teasing and de» 
rision should not be allowed in a family, as it tends to imbitter the 
best temper.. 

To be often chiding for trivial faults, is injurious : noticing thena 
merely by caution and advice is far preferable. Threats and 
scolding tend greatly to lessen filial love, and parental authority. 
An imj)ortant step to be taken in education, is to make ourselves 
loved ; and teach our child. en virtues by examples, as well aspre- 
sept.. Those who teach othersj sbould first eubdue their own pas- 
sions. 



13 

Never can we fulfil the divine command of tloing urdo otliers -As 
we would they should do unto us, until we have learned to restrain 
the passions and desires which terminate in self; and therefore, if 
v.e would assist children in attaining such a control over the self 
ish passions as is necessary for the practical exercise of piety^ 
justice and benevolence ; we must begin betimes to inure them to 
the practice of self-denial. Is it not for want of self-denial, and 
from acting from the impulse of self-will, that we so often see 
the professors of piety void of charity, benevolence, and that jus- 
tice of doing as they would be done unto. 

To give the intellectual part of our nature a command over the 
animal, ought surely to constitute a primary object in education ; ^ * 
for according as the one or the other prevails, will the chafecter 
be formed to^vice or virtue. And yet we generally act towards 
children, especially when young, as if the sensual part of their na- 
ture were the only object of our concern. 

Hence, amongst other evil consequences, is that resulting fromi 
the mistaken conduct of pampering the appetite, and indulging 
the pleasures of the palate in childhood ; and they are of greater 
moment than many parents are aware of; for thereby the idea of 
happiness becomes associated with the gratification of the sensual 
appetite ; hence proceeds the degrading habit of unwarrantable self-^ 
indulgence in eating and drinking in riper j^ars. 

And is it not more than probable, that parents sometimes im- 
plant the spirit of pride in their children by the finery of dress they 
put on them when young? And thusthey become captives to the 
vanity and frivolousness of fashion, xhe inconstancy of which is 
such, that it is quite sufficient if one mode of dress, however useful, 
lias been long adopted, it must be discarded, and another, though less 
convenient, but having the charm of novelty, substituted in its 
place ; even though it be so formed as almost to put modesty to 
the blush. Is it not then a duty we owe our children, to model 
their dress agreeably to that simplicity which is so noble, so delightT 
ful, and in all respects so conformable to christian simplicity ? 

The most opulent parent ought not to be ashamed to adopt tir 
the economical education of their children, the excellent motto, 
*' waste not, want not." Early habits of care, antf an early aver- "^ 
sion and contempt of waste and extravagance may preserve an es- ^ 
tate, which for the want of them might be soon lavished away. And <^ 
to encourage young people in economy, they should be taught to c:::^ 
take a family interest in domestic expenses. Parental reserve in «^^ 
money matters, is impolitie : as one judiciously observes, " that fe- > 
ther who wraps his atfairs up in mystery, and who views his child \ 
with jealous eyes, as a person who is to begin to live when himselT \ 
dies, will probably make him an enemy, by treating him as such." 
A frank simplicity, and cordial dependence upon the integrity and 
sympathy of their children will be more likely to insure to parents 
their disinterested friendship. Ignorance is always more to be dread- 
ed than knowledge. Young people who are acquainted with family 
expenses, and the various wants of a family, iPill not be likely to 
be unreasonable in their own expenditures. And the pleasure of 
"beingesteemedand trusted, is early felt, and the ©onsciottfineSB ot 
■(teeerving conM^ie© is delightful to childreu* 

3- 



14 

Wiiatever is read oi* children hear spoken of in terms ©f admira- 
tion or approbation, if it shall coiflcide with their inclinations, 
must give a strong bias to their minds. Hence the necessity of 
guarding conversation in families ; as well as excluding companions 
and books that have a tendency to vitiate the heart. And peo- 
ple should conscientiously abstain from passing encomiums on the 
beauty, sprightliness or other acoomplishments of children, as it 
lend%to lead to pride and self-conceit, which otherwise they might 
iiave been preserved from. To prevent children from reading im- 
proper books, parents should be careful to provide proper ones, 
and if we wish to inspire them with the love of the Scriptures,letthem 
see that other books are read and dismissed, and the bible alone re- 
mains* the constant companion of our serious hours, the subject of 
our* daily meditation ; they will associate the idea of superior 
excellence witb the bible, before they are able to read. And on 
the contrary, if they perceive that we read it but seldom, and 
perhaps with seeming indifference, it will prejudice them a- 
gainst it. 

In all our management of children and young persons, our chief 
object should be, the introduction of sentiments that are friendly to 
virtue and happiness. But in order effectually to impress these senti- 
ments, let us bear in mind, that example has a powerful effect. For 
though parents concerned for the welfare of their children, cautien 
them against anger, if they see this passion givca way to in the 
parents, of what -effect is precept? Again, we advise^them against 
an avaricious disposition : but if they discover, that cur prevailing- 
desire is to accumulate wealth*will they be likely to act differently 1* 
We teach them the necessity of doing unto others as they 
would be done unto; and yet, if they detect us in con- 
ducting ourselves contrary to this rule, will they not learn by 
our example to do as we do ? Parents who are devoted to pleasure, 
and self-indulgence, must expect their children to run the same 
course. A mother who is fond of dress and company, whose aim is 
to attract attention, and outKhine her neighbours and friends, in the 
splendor of her furniture, &c. may indeed lecture her children on 
the necessity of hujnility, and caution them against the pomps and 
vanities of this world ; such lessons may play upon the ear, but 
will never sink into the heart, while they are taught by her exam- 
ple, that these very pomps and vanities are the prime end of exis- 
tence. 

While esteem for goodness and piety are by parents professed irt. 
ii'ordSyh}xt contradicted by conduct ; in vain will be the effects of 
religious or moral precepts. If we teach the love of the great Su- 
preme with our lips, and that of mammon by mn" lives, we may as- 
sure ourselves, the latter only will be taught effectually. Chil- 
dren from the enrliestdawn of reason, should be learning from the 
tcno^^of our lives, an esteem for virtue, aad aversion ft)r vice. 

Upon the heart, the uniform tenor of precept and example, 
wi'ought into habit, and confirmed into principle, can alone be ex- 
pected to make arf ^ectual and lasting impression The expe- 
rience of mankind confirms this truth ; and yet too many of us ap- 
pear to cherish the idea of effecting wonders, by giving our chil- 
dren lessons of virtue, and storing liieir memories with facts a n# 
tlieorif s, uaaidstl bf exaia|)ie« 



15 

Itisof the utmost consequence, that the first impressions matle 
OR children's minds respecting the Divine Being, are correct, 
and encouraging. They should be taught that he is Uxq 
giver of every good, the author of all felicity, that he is love 
itself, and delights in our happiness. These impressions, and 
having religion and happiness connected together in their 
view, will be likely to beget the feelings of love, reverence 
and gratitude, and be a better foundation for a practical assent to 
" the truths of the gospel than creeds and catechisms got by heart. 
And as age unfolds the capacity, the doctrines of Christianity 
ought to be presented in the simplest forms ; divestrd of all in- 
coraprehensibleartiQjesofbelief.lt is to be feared that some pious, but 
ill-judging parents, by representing the deity to the imagination 
of children in the light of an avenging sovereijjii, whose service h 
perfect bondage, have thereby united such "gloomy and unpleasant 
ideas with religion, as greatly to strengthen their resistance to the 
admission of truth. 

It is by refining and exalting the motives of action that parents 
promote the happiness of their families. Therefore, it is very im- 
portant to fix on the young mind a conviction that religion is not 
an occasional act, but the effect of the in-dwelling principle of di- 
vine grace, by which their common acts are to be governed, and 
their evil propensities subdued ; that the indissoluble connexion 
between religion and moral rectitude must ev^^^aintained^ If 
ye love God^ ye wUl avoid evil^ and do good ;7sl?9nt is the purity 
of the motive^vvhich not only gives worth and beauty, but which, 
in a christian sense, gives life and efficacy to the best actions. 
And without pure motives, acts of devotion, however splendid, 
will not be accepted in the divine sight. 

When love to God, and love and good will towards men, have 
been eai'ly impressed, as essential doctrines of Christianity, and the 
mind has been taught to approve itself, by its consciousness of 
having performed its duty ; young people entering into life to act 
for themselves, who have imbibed these principles, will not com- 
monly, it is apprehended, deviate widely from rectitude of conduct. 

May the concerned parents, therefore, not suffer the lively sea- 
sen, when the hearts of their children are flexible, the conscience 
tender, and love ardent, to slide by, without impressing by exam- 
ple and precept, those principles, on their adherence to which their 
happiness in time and eternity depends. 

I will here close these observations, by saying, that whatever be 
the evntof a pious education to the child, it is very important to 
parents to have acquitted themselves of the incumbent duty of 
training their childjn the wa y he should go. Very d ifferent mus t 
'beTHe feelings and reflections of those parents , vvho,_thovigh mourn- 
ing ov^r a prodigal child, canTappeal "tcTthe searcher of jieartsTTbr 
Tiaving endeavoured to the besCbf theiFTvnowledge, to lead himTu_ 
tlTe path of r ectitud e, from thosejvho, tliough also lamenting the 
evil courses of their offspring, have their own neglected duty olseKh 
sonable instruction staring them in the face. 



HINTS 



YOUNG PEOPLE 



ON THE 



Duties of Civil Life. 



TOU are ^w at that ffeason of life wKea you are most sas> 
ceptibleof improvement. Your faculties are expanding; anA 
exercise will increase their powers. The understanding is now in» 
quisiiive and eager for information. Let it be your aim that it b& 
directed to the contemplation of proper objects ; and the acquisition, 
of useful knowledge. If left uncultivated, you may conceive false 
notions of things, and will probably imbibe such prejudices, as may 
hereafter give a v. rong bias to your conduct through. life ; and, in 
a great measure deprive you of the satisfaction and benefit that 
may be derived from civil society, 

JN'ow indeed is the seed time of life ; and according to what yon 
SOUK you shall reap. The direction you now give your desires and 
passions, will be likely to continue to govern them. Beware, 
Therefore, at your first setting out in life, of those seducing appear- 
ances of pleasure that surround you ; or ather snares and tempta- 
tionsthe world holds out. It often happens, that by a continued 
series of loose, though apparently trivial gratifications, the heart 
is thoroughly corrupted. Guard therefore against accounting any 
thing small or trivial, which is in hazard of introducing disorder 
into your hearts. Set out with intentions, that usefulne.<is and ac- 
tive goodness shall direct your pursuits : thus will each in his place, 
contribute to the general welfare, afld reap the consequent benefit 
of their own improvement. 

A great duty of civil life, is to remember others, and fulfil the 
obligations we are under of doing good. Civil life is a commerce 
of mutual assistances. The most virtuous JaringYhe greatest share. 
In seeking the good of others, you will generally insure yourown» 



17 

People^ who live only tot themselves, are despicable creatures. 
Self-love sometimes occasions us to commit great cnmes ; an3 iii its 
most innocent state, it weakens the virtues and harmonies of socie- 
ty, and lessens to us our ovvn faults. Which, to see in their true 
point of view, we must behold, with the same eyes with which we 
see our neighbour's defects. .j0 0. 

By reflecting frequently upon your own feelings, and showing' 
them to yourselves without disguise, you will draw from this ex- 
amination sentiments of humility lowaids yourselves and indulgence 
towards others. 

On your first entering on the stage of action in the world, to 
keep good company^ will be jf great importance to you. It will 
give you a relish for such company ; and thus you will be likely to 
receive proper impressions : and early impressions, whether right 
or wrong, are often decisive as respects future conduct in life. As- 
sociate, therefore, with those from whose conduct and conversationv 
you may by proper attention, gain instruction and useful knowl- 
edge. Depend upon it, you will sink or rise to the lev^el of the 
company yo u keep . People will judge of you, and not unreason- 
atilyby thati !Bad~company is often very fatal to young people. 
If you associate with those whose habits of life are immoral, and 
irregular, you can hardly fail of being corrupted by the pernicious 
influence of their example ; and by the destructive tendency of 
their sentiments, which last they will endeavour to insinuate int» 
your minds, to the exclusion of the better ones you may have 
possessed. Cautiously avoid the company of such persons. 

Even if the company you keep be not of the libertine or vi- 
cious kind, yet if they withdraw you from that attention to your- 
selves and your domestic concerns which becomes a good man, 
they are unprofitable, and may prove very injurious. 

There is a class of young men, who think to distinguish them- 
selves by an air of libertinism ; but it degrades them in the opin- 
ion of sensible persons. It proves, not a superiority of mind, but 
depravity of heart. Purity of manners, and respect for religion^ 
are necessary to those who would wish to be respected by worthy 
people. Virtue exalts the condition of man, as vice degrades it. 
The basis of happiness is peace of mind, resulting from the testi- 
mony of a good xjonscieKcc. 

It is our duty as well as interest, to endeavour to promote in- 
tellectual and moral improvement in conversation, and to bring 
into a disposition to bear with others, and to be watchful over our- 
selves. Seek not to shine. Remember, that simplicity, accom- 
panied with a pleasing mildness, and proper regard for others' 
feelings, is the first charm in manner, as truth is in mind. Re- 
member also, that this mildness, and regard for others' feelings, 
ought not to be an occasional ornament, but an every day 
habit: not put on merely when you go into company, and laid 
aside when at home, where* it may . be most needed. If people 
would always observe it at home, it would prove an efficacious pre- 
vention to the frequent recurrence of those jars and wrangles by 
which the happiness of many families is destroyed. 

If a due regard for the feelings of others were properly cherished 
both at home and abroad, that gentleness, and strict civility which 
constitute important virtues of society, and ^orm the great bondsj 



18 

vsAnch give secinlty and pleasure to our social iutercourhC. would in 
all companies, and on all occasions, be maintained. Civility and true 
politeness, are near of kin ; and consist not in the adherence to the 
unmeaning forms of ceremony ; but an exquisite observance of the 
feelings of others; and an invariable respect for those feelings. To 
express (without an indispensable necessity) what you suspect may 
wound the feelings of any present, whether it respects themselves, 
profpRsiohin life, religious opinions, or indeed on any other account, 
is uncivil, and not a trait of a good education, or an improved mind. 
If any present possess a particular weakness or infirmity, genuine 
cifility will not admit to exercise your wit by inventing occasions 
which may lead to expose or betrp.y it : but will dictate to 
give as favourable a turn as you can to the weakness of such. 

To treat the frailties of our fellow creatures with tenderness, to 
correct their errors with kindness, to view even their vices v.ith 
pity, and to induce by every friendly attention, a mutual good- 
will, is not only an important moral duty, bat a means of increas- 
ing the sum of earthly happiness. 

Polite or well behaved people discover a modesty without 
bashfulness ; a candour without bluntness, a freedom without as- 
surance. They do not rudely contradict one another. They are 
attentive to what is said, and reply with mildness and condescen- 
sion. They neither intermeddle unnecessarily with the affairs, nor 
pry into the secrets of others. Thus their conduct being easy, 
agreeable and consistent with sincerity, they command respect. 
In short, true civility or politeness, is that kind of behaviour which 
unites firmness with gentleness of manners, accompanied with a dis- 
position to please, but never at the expense of integrity. 

But there is a description of people who style themselves plain 
dealers ; they speak what they think with a rough bluntness, 
and uncontrolled freedom, without respect to time or place. 
They openly reprove the faults of others, and throw out their satire 
indiscriminately^ Such persons, however unexceptionable their 
oHiorals, and however true their remarks, are notwithstanding un- 
pleasant companions. 

In conversation, mark well what others say or do. A just ob- 
servance and reflection upon men and things, give wisdom. Those 
are the great books of learning too seldom read. Be always on 
your watch, but particularly in company- Interrupt none. Be 
swift to hear, slow to speak. This gives time to understand, and 
ripens an answer. Aim not to use fine words, but rather to convey 
good sense ; and chiefly to be pertinent and plain. Truest elo- 
quence is plainest; and brief speaking, that is, in as few words as 
the matter will admit of so as to be clearly understood, is the best. 
Never change sisiplicity of manners, speech or behaviour, for that 
which is the effect of false taste, or servile imitation. Banish art 
and affectation, for you will not make yourselves agreeable by 
either. Strict sincerity with unassuming manners, will gain yea 
the esteem and confidence of your acquaintance. 

Do good when you can, speak evil of none, is an important les- 
son ; the latter should be so indelibly imprinted on the mind, as to 
keep you on your guard in all company, and on every occasion, to 
avoid saying any thing of an absent person yourselves, orcounte- 
Rancing it in others, that wUl tend to lessen his reputation. Fo; 



19 

altliougli evil speaking too frequently foiins a consitlemljle part of 
common conversation; this does not lessen its criminality nor palliate 
tbe injury done to the reputation of our neighbour Avoid there « 
fore and di>courageevery kind of detraction. Listen not to slander. 
jVever judge with rigour, nor condemn any person unheard. Kemem- 
ber, there are things resembling truth, that are not true. In private 
judgment we should imitate the equity of public. Judge? never 
decide without examining the grounds of accusation, and hearing 
the defence of the accused. It would indeed be ^reat injustice if 
they did. 

And let me impress it upon you, that a sense of justice be the 
foundation on which you act. In your most early intercourse yvith 
the world, and even in your youthful amusements, permit no unfair- 
ness to be found. Despise that gain which cannot be obtained 
without mean arts. Stoop to no dissimulation, for it will sink yea 
into contempt. Engrave on your minds that sacred rule of doing 
all things to others according as you wish they would do unto you. 

And as justice is due unto man, so is tenderness to the brute 
creation ; since both originate from the same principle. To tor- 
ment any living creature, even the least insect, is an act of inhu- 
manity. They are alike subject to pain with ourselves. The All- 
Wise Creator, whose mercies are over all his works, did not give 
us dominion over the beasts of the field, that we should exercise it 
with cruelty. Yet how often do we see them treated with the 
most unfeeling barbarity ? particularly that useful animal the 
horse ; how he is lashed and driven, as if he were void of sensationj 
or a capability of suffering by.extreme fatigue. And the faithful 
tlog, how frequently is he kicked about and abused. 

Endeavour so to have the mastery of your temper, and be gov- 
erned by reason, as not only to avoid abuse to brutes, but to possess 
such coolness of mind, and serenity of countenance, as to bear to hear 
disagreeable things from your fellow men without anger, and 
agreeable ones without sudden bursts of joy. If from so|iie cause 
you feel a hasty rise of passion, resolve not to utter a weird, while 
you feel that emotion within you. Determine to keep your coun- 
tenance as unmoved, and as unembarrassed as possible. Pifeople are 
sometimes led into great inconsistencies by g'ving way to anger. 
By silence, or an answer in meekness or gentleness, the offending 
person will sooner be convinced of his error, thjan by a return of 
^Jigry expressions. Passionate persons often make others unhap- 
py, and themselves miserable. Indeed people when angry are not 
themselves. And therefore silence to passion is the best ansvver ; 
and will frequently conquer what resistance inSauies. 

Never give the least plaqe to the feelings of hatred and ven-^ 
geance. To revenge is laean. If any one has injured you, seek 
satisfaction by manifesting greater moderation, than he who attacks 
you has of malice. By forgiving an ciience, you will in some measure 
disarm your enemy, and perhaps convert his enmity into friendship. 
Indeed, the christain has but one mode of obtaining satisfaction, 
that of doing good to those who injure him. This is the most deli- 
cate, eflFectual, and only allowable retaliation. He that pardons, 
feels a satisfaction as niucii abave what vengeance- affords, a^plea-^ 
tiire e^eeeds paia» 



, ^ -20 

Anil be a^surcJ, that tbe greatest errors, or most efroneou9"priiia 
clples in religion possible for men to embrace will never warrant 
^n us the exercise or indulgence of a malevolent disposition to- 
wds hem. From every view «f perfect on, the idea of lU-will 
il totally excluded. And every degree of kindness, or a d.spasi- 
ton to do good, becomes a proportional source of haop.ness to the 
beaevolent mind. To cultivate feelings of benevolence and love 
towards our fellow creatures of ever> defecnption, is a trait in the 
christian character. And were the truespintot chns .an char- 
ity to become, as it ought, the distinguishing characleristic of pro- 
fes ing christians, the despi- able principles «f ^'^S^^^, .^«^,f ft'^t; 
tion which have iaused tho.a bickerings and animosities that have 
.0 debase'lthe character of the professed followers of Chnst, would 
be banished from among them. 

Be faithful to your promises: but that your word may obtain 
entire confidence, be careful how and what you promise. Obser/e 
truth even in trifling things. It is wicke.] as well as contemptible 

^'^BeTumble without being bashful. Bashfulness is sometimes a 
secret pride. The medium between a kind ot improper bashful- 
iess, and disgusting forwardness, marks ihe well-bred man- He 
feels himself firm and easy in company ; is modest, ^\>thout be,ng 
bashful and steady without being impudent. Is not disposed t» 
eno-ross the conversation to liiraself, but gives to others an opportu- 
Hitv of being equally free and unrestrained. VV lien he conver.^ea 
with strangers, he does not incautiously condemn their customs 
and habitsfby arrogantly holding up those of his^own native place 
asmuchpkerable. This man converses with his superiors with 
ease and respect; with his inferiors without insolence, and with mg 
Equals ^vith that becoming freedom and clieeifulness, so grateful 
and pleasing in converse tiorii . i ^ ^ 1.1. t. 

The vain man is so full ot himself, that it is I at every turn that 
does this or that. Tell him any thing, and he has known it long 
aeo : he outruns information, or else proudly rejects it. W hereas, 
the greatest understandings are most ready to learn, and generally 

^^?df-coSt,' presumption and obstinacy tend greatly to lesseA 
those possessed of them in the view of sensible persons and m 
youth, blast the prospects of future improvraent and usetulness. 
" Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit ; there is more hope ot 
a fool than of him." 

In relating what has happened, omit every circumstance 
that is not material. \.nd beware of digressions ; otherwise you 
may render useful communications tiresome. 

Avoid whispering in company ; it bespeaks ill breeding ; and is m 
SDme degree a fraud, conversation being a joint and commuii 

Miniicry is the common an^favourite amusement of little, loW 
Blinds: practise it not yourselves, norappiaud it^in^others. 

As I am dbihtmg out traits in conduct that are.iuere'sy unpleas- 

•Ant as well as those more'off^msive and blamable, ; wal me!itJ<;u 

• the'too prevalent habit of lojid lauding; which to my the beet vce 

' caiTofit, isadisagr^-eabie one. It is generaliy. exo^.ted by low 

fests, or ally accidents, whioJi 'peopte of r-eputatioii and good sensf 



25 

sire to improve each other, void of all motives of self-interest. A 
proper sense of virtue and honour, are necessary qualifications in 
an intimate. Where these prevail, attended with a free, sincere, 
kind and obliging disposition, the conversation of such friends 
will be pleasing and instructive, and they will be likely to strength- 
en each other in virtue. 

Thus likewise with regard to the solemn engagement of mar- 
riage, be not hasty in fixing. Keep in mind the importance of the 
undertaking, and act with great caution. Enter not unadvisedly 
into it. An attachment hastily formed, or founded merely on 
personal charms, is seldom lasting : and if riches are the motive, 
it is very doubtful whether real happiness in enjoyment will be its 
consequent. Matrimonial union and felicity must have something 
more solid for their basis. To be well acquainted with the princi- 
ples, temper and habits of the person before you fix, is very neces- 
sary. There is but little probability, that a married state will be 
happy or free from many disquietudes if it is not founded on virtue. 
And even where there are traits of virtue, yet if not a coincidence 
of religious sentiment, there is still less probability, that even a 
comfortable harmony will be maintained ; especially in educating 
a family of children. When marriage has been entered into with- 
out previous circumspection, repentance comes too late. 

As entering into the married state is serious, so the duties of it 
are very momentous ; and if duly attended to, will teach the wed- 
ded pair to contribute as much as possible to each other^s ease and 
contentment ; both in prosperity and adversity. The same assidu-^. 
ity should be used to preserve an affection, as to gain it. If you 
would preserve love, endeavour to acquire those happy dispositions 
which are attractive and durable ; bearing in mind, that between 
man and wife, nothing ought to rule but love. Authority is for 
children and servants, yet not without sweetness. A meek and 
quiet spirit, cheerful conversation, tenderness, accompanied with a 
due allowance for, and disposition to overlook and cover each 
other's failings, will tend greatly to establish and preserve matrimo- 
nial happiness and cordiality. But on the contrary, if a little self- 
will in one, should be met with anger in the other ; or some tri- 
fling misconduct with upbraiding ; or if there should be reproach in- 
stead of forbearance, and sullenncss and indifference, in the place 
of -good humour and kindness ; or if while the wife is prudent and 
economical at home, the husband is squandering away time and 
property in diversions and extravagance abroad ; or if on the other 
hand, the wife runs into costly finery, and other superfluous expen- f 
ses which the industrious husband with all his exertions cannot af- 
ford to pay, conjugal felicity must be greatly lessened, if not des- 
troyed. 

. Among other duties, may you^niot fo rget t he o bligat ions of lov e 
and gratitude due to tliose who gave you birth. "To honour our 
psTrents is a divine law. fo assist tEem when they need_assistance, 
if in our power, iTa deht_we owe them. It manifests great want 
of filial duty, not to provide for tliose in the infirmities of old age, 
who so amply provided forju_s in the_helpless state of chil dhood . 
Indeed much of tlTe happiness of parents frequently depends bri the 
conduct of their children : it is from them that tliey expect to de- 
rive cohifort in the decline of life. How strong are the_ties whicb 
luTiteaffectionate parents to thelFchildren, when they re gay iliefe 
tenderness Wy kind attention, care and assistsyice ? 



26 

As a family is the common consequence of marriage, and ser- 
vants or hired people generally make part of the family ; permit 
me to remind you, that servitude being, established contrary to the 
natural rights of man, it ought to be softened as much as possible, 
and servants made to feel their conditien as little as may be. Do 
not bear hard upon them ; it bespeaks littleness of spirit to behave 
with loltiness to those who are subject to us. Mildness of com- 
mand begets love in children, and respect in servants ; and tends 
greatly to preserve domestic enjoyment, as well as to enforce obe- 
dience. But when commands are arbitrary and imperious, they 
are destructive to social harmony. Never use illiberal words ; 
these are what a polite and delicate person should always avoid. 
Have we a right to exgect domestics without faults; we who show 
our own so often ? It is our duty to inspect their moraT conduct, 
as welFas theTr labour ; and in particulars of which they are igno- 
rant, we should instruct them. And when they find us ready to 
assist, and advise them, and to promote their welfare, and render 
them easy in their situation, they will, it is probable, respect and be 
unwilling to offend us, as well as feel an interest in our concerns. 
Whatever virtues you wjsh to find in servants, letjliera fi nd the 
«arae in you. ^ good example will be the likeliest means of pre* 
?ervlng tEem in a uniform course of regular life. But a bad one, 
may corrupt the best inclinations. 

It is a common saying, that " Despatch is the life of business." 
And nothing tends more to despatch, than method. Lay down a 
■method for every thing, and stick to it invariably, as far as unex- 
pected incidentt may allow. "Do one thing at a time," is aa 
excellent maxim. By strict attention to the object in view, 
and never putting off till to-morrow, what may done to-day, yoa 
will accomplish more, and it will be better done, than by hurry, 
l^ustle and agitation. And bear in mind, that whatever is worth 
doing at all, isw^orth doing well. It facilitates business much, for 
people to have tlie implements for doing it regularly put in their 
proper places, that when needed, they know where to find them. 
iSome people often spend as much time in looking for their tools, as 
it takes to do the work they want them for. A proper example 
of regularity, in the husband, in his department, and of the wife in 
hers, will soon teach their family. Do every thing in its own time, 
keep every thing in its own place, and have every thing for its own 
use, is a salutary rule. The want of attention to this rule, and 
riOt methodically arranging business, is frequently to be seen in 
those persons, 'v^ho, though they have much to do, get but little 
done ; frequentJy In a bustle,* many things begun, "but none finished. 
The fean of order avoids two extremes, the multiplicity of mixed 
affairs, which often produces hurry.and confusion ; and the total 
want of business ; and thus steers clear ol" idleness, that most fruitful 
source of crimes and evils. * _ * . "^ 

And now in order both to adopt, and reap the advantages of 
regularity and method, I would enCou-rage early rising. But to do^ 
this, it will be necessary to avoid a practice which Jias become too* 
fashionable; at least in many places; and that is late .hours iii 
retiring to rest. The night is properly adapted to sleep ; because 
the darkness with which we are then surrounded, is less favourable 
to business, and particularly auspicious to rest. When thelightof 
day withdraws, how naturally, do the brute creation retire to their 
repose! ''This 8oIei»«i etillness of the night, invities -as to do the 



21 

should show themselves above. Sensible conversation gives a 
cheerfulness to the countenance, but seldom provokes loud laugh- 
ter. And some people accustom themselves to laugh when sp^k- 
Jing, These habits, though not criminal, are unpleasant, and aught 
to be avoided. 

When you are in company, try to bring the conversation to some 
useful subject. Points of history, literature, the customs of partic- 
ular countries, &;c. are surely better subjects than conversing 
about other people to their disadvantage, or about dress, or relate 
i'ng such kinds of stories as afford no information. Beware of re- 
lating marvellous things, that may require proofs to be believed. 

Be cautious of entertaining company with youroAvn personal 
concerns, or private affairs : though they are interesting to your- 
selves, they are generally tedious to others. 

. Never say a word that can be construed as fishing for applause. 
Do not imagine that any thing you can say respecting yourselves, 
will either rarnish your defects, or add lusture to your perfections. 
Indeed discreet, well educated persons, rarely find opportunity to 
speak much of themselves, they are better employed. Those who 
speak little of themselves : but who set other people's merit in its 
true light, make a favourable impression upon the minds of 
their hearers, and acquire their love and esteem. They who are 
less anxious to obtain the approbation of others than to merit it, 
generally do both. 

Never maintain an argument with heat and clamour, though 
5i0U are confident of being in the right: but give an opinion coolly 
and modestly, which is the best way to convince. And if that 
does not do, try to change the conversation in a gentle easy way : 
for truth often sufiers more by the heat of its defenders, than from 
the arguments of its opposers. If you wouKl convince others, stand 
open to conviction yourselves, and if you would please others, do 
as you would be done by. To acknowledge a mistake when con- 
vinced of it, indicates an ingenuous mind. But obstinately to ad- 
here to our sentiments when convinced of an error, bespeaks stub- 
bornness, pride, and self-importance. 

It is the high opinion people entertain of themselves, that leads 
them to be inattentive to what others say, and to assert their own 
opinions, and supposed rights, with so much haughtiness, and to as- 
sume so much over others. A daring confidence is mean and dls-~ 
gUsting, .while that becoming iraodesty that generally accompa-- 
Dies true merit, engages the minds of people in our favour. Re-- 
fleet what a disagreeable impression an inattentive behaviour, an 
imperious manner of speaking make upon you at first sight in a 
stranger. What pl eases or di &jplea ses you in other s, be 
per su aded, that in general the same thing will please or displease • 
the1n in you. '■ ■— 

*~To escape the accusation of being desirous to be thought learned, 
or passing for scholars, abstain from any display of your learning, 
how gi-eat soever it may be. Seek not to appear wiser or more 
learned, than tlie company you are with. And whatever you 
converse about, let it be in an easy, natural and unaffected manner. 
The manner of doing things, is sometimes more important than the ■ 
^ings themselves. If you have occasion to contradict 'any body, 
or set thiem riglit from- a mistake, avoid bluntly sayingj " that is- 

4 



22 

not so," " I know better ;" but rather express a belief that it is a 
mistake, or misinformation : or aj>k tlie question, is it not thus or 
so ? For though you may know a thing better than other people, 
yet it is displeasing to tell them so directly without something to 
soften it. And may you who have this superior learning or other 
useful qualifications, or possess riches or power, bear iu mind, that 
these can only render the possessor happy in proportion as he em- 
ploys them to increase the happines of others. They are instru- 
ments in his hands "• the wants and helplessness of mankind are the 
pbjects to which they are to be applied- Of their use an account 
is to be rendered. To what end designed, how they have been used 
and what reckoning awaits them, are solemn reflections. 

A taste for useful employments and literary instruction tends to 
solidity of judgment. Those who can cheerfully relieve the weari- 
fioraeness of domestic concerns by a well chosen book, will escape 
from many of the follies and indiscretions, to which those are liable, 
whose resource is dissipated or gossiping parties ; or the chit chat 
of visiting acquaintance. The lovers of industry and books, will 
generally visit others, or be visited themselves, from affection and 
esteem : and their object be improvement, as well as pleasure. And 
their home ivill be secured from dullness, by a mind invigorated by 
useful information. By reading books judiciously chosen, the un- 
derstanding is enlarged, useful precepts and examples are learned ; 
a knowledge of the customs, manners, government and laws of dif- 
ferent nations is obtained, reflection and meditation are promoted- 
And though I shall not attempt to point out a cource of readir^, 
yet suffer me to urge that the Scriptures have the first place. 
Head them frequently, and with minds desirous of being benefited': 
then you will find them both delightful and instructing. The old 
Testament for history chiefly ; the Psalms for meditaUon and de- 
votion ; but the New Testament for doctrine, faith and practice. 
And here, dear young people, permit me to entreat you, as you 
value your best interest, not to spend your precious time in reading 
>iovels, plays, tales of wonder, and such other books, as your best 
feelings, if attended to, will tell you are calculated to corrupt, by- 
leading the raind into vanity, and unprofitable pursuits, if not into 
erroneous principles. They often fill the minds of tho5e who in- 
dulge in reading them, with visionary notions ; and hence their 
conversation is frivolous and trifling, and they rendered unfit for 
the useful intercourse of society. 

And although history affords much necessary and useful inform^ps 
{ion, yet, in many of the histories, both of ancient and modern 
limes, such are frequently the representations of the crimes and 
the virtues of historic heroes, that the feeling raind is shocked on 
reading them. History often presents a disgusting, terrible list of 
erimes and calamities. Murders, assassinations, battles, revolu- 
tions, are the memorable events of history. The historian makes 
ihe love of glory atone for military barbarity ; treachery and 
fraud are frequently dignified with the names of prudence and pot- 
Hey. Yet desirous to appear moral, he makes out an inconsistent, 
and ambiguous system of morality. If you are not careful when 
reading such histories, to maintain correct ideas of right and 
wrong, I mean such as Christianity inculcates, and not suffer your-. 
«ilves to be deceiycd by the gloss the historfan puts, on lierors;3pv 



23 

and the unchristian comluct attendant on war to justify crime?,- 
you may be led into great and fatal error. Therefore, when you 
read those astonishing accounts of military barbarity, and other 
dreadful consequences of war, cherish the just astonishment and 
forrow you feel, as arising from that spirit of love and tenderness 
that the gospel inculcates, and which characterizes the christian. 

And although it may be considered a digression, I will invite 
the attention of young men to the subject of war. For, although 
■war, for wise purposes, doubtless, yet to us inscrutable, was per- 
mitted to the Jews, we are under the gospel ; a dispensation 
widely different from that of the law ; as Christ has (aught us by 
his precepts and doctrine, and particularly pointed out, in his 
memorable sermon on the mount ; and has confirmed by his exam- 
ple of love, self-denial, and doing good on all occasions, and to ev- 
ery description of people, even to his greatest enemies, who sought 
his life, and finally crucified him : how he raanifessed his kindness, 
and disposition to forgive injuries ; by healing the wounded ear of' 
one, and praying for the forgiv^eness of them all ; Father, forgive 
them, was his meek language. I wish you to examine the nature 
and design of Christianity, as set forth in the New Testament ; and 
judge for yourselves, whether the ^spirit of love, meekness and for- 
bearance that the Saviour practised and strongly inculcated ; and 
which his apostles so forcibly recommended as the main pillar on 
which Christianity is founded, is or is not in'direct opposHion to the 
ambitious, revengeful, cruel spirit that generates ami supports w^ar. 
If so, do not suffer yourselves to be led into error, by publick opin- 
ion or common practice. For remember, to be a christian is to be 
of a disposition like unto Christ; forgive injuries, love and pray 
for enemies, do good to those that hate us, and resist not evil. He 
has set us an example that we should follow his steps, says the 
apostle Peter. 

Now, leaving the subject of war, accept of a few more hints on 
the employment of the early years of life. While you are young, 
form your reputation ; increase, by your prudent conduct, respec- 
tability : put your affairs in proper order ; be careful in your ex- 
penses ; let them be governed by moderation and economy. Re- 
trench superfluous ones, in order to enable you to bear those which 
propriety, friendship and charity demand. Make a fund of your 
frugality that you may draw thereon for the service of the needy. 
-In a word, to squander away no time in idleness, but to employ it to 
some good purpose, and^to waste nothing that may be useful to oth- 
ers, should be a conclusion strictly adhered to ; because we are ac- 
countable to the bountiful giver, for the right use of both time 
and property. There can be no excuse (even where wealth 
abounds) that will justify waste and extravagance ; neither can 
any justifiable plea be offered for hoarding up riches, while there 
are so many deserving poor, that are in want of the necessaries of 
life. 

Industry and frugality are by no means necessarily connected 
•^ with an avaricious disposition. Economy is not inconsistent with 
generosity. It steers the middle course between extravagance 
and covetousness. It is observable, that the most industrious, are 
frequently the most liberal. As I wish you to be liberal, not prod° 
igal J diligent but not avaricicus ; so also frugal but not sordkl. 



24 

By incliistiy and economy, we are enabled to be cbaritable, ami 
sometimes liberal. And where charity keeps pace with gain, we 
may hope for a blessing on diligence. But to slave to get, and 
keep it sordidly, is a sin against Providence. 

Liberality differs from charity in this ; that she has sometimes 
other objects ; she not only relieves the poor, but also casts her 
eye on those who do not absolutely want. She finds out virtue in 
a low degree, and exalts it. She eases their burden who labour 
hard to live ; many kind and generous turns those find at her hand, 
who do not quite want. The decayed, and'the widow and the fa- 
therless partake of her kindness. She takes one child and puts 
out another to lighten the loads of overcharged parents. True 
liberality is plentiful, but not superfluous ; and is a noble principle 
in man. Ey it the enjoyment of prosperity is redoubled. 

Never listen to the cravings of vanity. We wish to be like 
others. But this desire extends a great way, and is seldom satisfi- 
ed. Among other cravings of vanity, listen not to that which 
dress demands. Excess in apparel is a costly folly. The more sim- 
ple clothes are, the better. Neither unshapely nor fantastical. 
For use and decency, and not for pride. Nature requires not stu- 
died ornaments. A plain manner is in general the greatest orna- 
ment. A modest dress has been considered the shield to virtue. 
In simplicity of attire, we commonly see a becoming neatness ; 
and a uniform neatness, is certainly preferable to that careless, and 
sometimes not very cleanly attire in the morning, with a splendid 
display of finery in the afternoon, which some women are found 
in. The imputation of want of neatness and delicacy is a great 
stigma on the female character. If young people contract a slov- 
enly manner, thay will seldom acquire a habit of neatness, when 
advanced in years. On the contrary, if whilst young, they are ha- 
bitually neat and clean, they will rarely if ever, be seen othei'wise. 

The world talks much of fortune, riches and greatness, while 
wisdom says, " lower your desires to things simple." Lay aside 
unnecessary expenses, and learn to be satisfie 1 in a plain, simple, 
temperate way of living: the i-eal comforts of life are far from be- 
ing lessened thereby. Eeraember but little is wanted for the neC' 
essariesof life^but much for those of opinion and imagination. 

In expectation of greater happiness and enjoyment, mankind as- 
pire after situations in life above, or dlffereat from those they are 
in ; but when attained, how are they disappointed ? New wants 
and desires arise ; new objects are required to gratify them ; dis- 
satisfaction continues, and the void which was to have been filled, 
remains as great as ever. Seek not therefore, to be rich or 
great, but happy : and if you would be happy bring your minds to 
your condition ; and have an indifference for what is more than 
sufficient. Contentment and resignation will find comfort, even 
in an humble and low situation. Be humble and you will learn 
contentment, and cheerfully accommodate yourselves to that sta- 
tion of life, in which you may be ^aced. 

And as the friendships you form, may materially affect your hap- 
piness ; let your intimates be few, though your acquaintance may 
necessarily be large. And be not hasty in the choice of confidants. 
Let prudence and discretion accompany you in the selection^ In 
true friendship there is a mutual regard, accompanied with a d^- 



27 

like. But too many seem at present to reject the invitation ; and 
to confound as it were the system of Pryw idence, by the unnatural 
practice of devoting much of the night both to business and plea- 
sure, and of the day to sleep. Thus, that part of the day spent in 
sleep, will be to such a perfect blank, and for whom the sun will al- 
most shine in vain. Early rising contributes to health, and invig- 
orates the faculties; as well as enables to appropriate each part of 
the day to its respective purposes. 

Too few people are good economists of time, though so very 
precious. The young are apt to think that they have so much time 
before them, that they may squander it away as they please; and 
yet have enough left: like as great estates have frequently sedu- 
ced to a ruinous profusion. Fatal mistakel always repented of, but 
generally too late. Those half hours, and hours, in the course of 
the day, which people think too short to deserve their attention ; 
would at the end of the year, amount to a considerable portion of 
time; and might be usefully employed in various ways, particular- 
ly by taking up some good book- 

The principle of being accountable for time, if once fixed in the 
mind will lead the conscientious person into an inquiry, whether he 
spends his time as he ought; whether some of his recreations or 
amusements, which, though not condemnablein themselves, do not 
encroach upon hours which ought to be dedicated to better purposes ; 
and therefore ought at least to be abridged. He is not contented to 
spend large portions of time harmlessly, it must be spent profitably 
also. And it will not even be enough, that his present pursuits be 
good, if he is convinced they might be still better. Thus he will 
be making continual progress in turning time to account. And 
his love of frivolous amusements will decrease, in direct proportion 
to the increase of his relish for those pleasures which religion en- 
joins and bestows. And as his views become new, so' his disposi- 
tions, tastes, and pursuits are new also. 

You will doubtless perceive that one object in the preceding 
remarks, has been, to encourage industry, and a regular and careful 
attention to business ; in the pursuit of which, and indeed in all 
your doings, permit me to call your attention to that comprehen- 
sive passage of an apostle, " Let your moderation be known unto all 
men ; the Lord is at hand." As if he had said, look to your ways ; 
■have a care what you do ; for the Lord is near you, he sees you. he' 
maTks your steps, and he will judge you accordingly. Let this ex- 
cellent, this home and clo^e sentence live in your minds, and in- 
fluence all your actions ; thereby the world will be properly esti- 
mated, and no extremes prevail And frequently to examine, not 
only your conduct, but your motives ; not merely what you do, but 
Tvhy yon do it ; will have a very salutary effect. 

Having thus endeavoured to point out some of the duties of social 
.life, and the requisites to qualify you for agreeable companions ; I 
"will now^give it a^jny fixed_belief, thatwith every other accJm- 
plishment, without reli^n, and being governed by it s princi ples 
you cnnnot be "Gappy, even_in this RTe. TheTa^iness of maFdi^ 
pends more upon the state of his raintT, than upon any other cir- 
cumstance; nay more than upon all external things put together. 
Therefore, unless we possess, what real religion produces, a cqn- 
j-oience void of offence, and a well -governed mind, the highest pros- 
penty and worlilly enjoymeiits will not afford substantial happi- 
ness. Expectations of bliss which rest on earthly poTsessions and 
pleasures, will end in disappointment. '. 



28 

But religion, by teaching a dependence on that supreme Provi- 
dence which disposes of iH human aflfairs, prepares the rtiifld to raeei 
-trials and disappointments; yea and to bear the most severe shocks 
of adversity with becoming fortitude. Thus a good man, by adopt- 
ing the Psalmist's maxim, " trust in the Lord, and do good," enjoys 
more real comfort in the course of a seemingly unprosperous life, 
than an irreligious man does in the midst of affluence and luxury. 

The foundation of pure religion, is the fear and love of God, de- 
monstrated by good works : such as show forth the Lord's praise, 
not with our lips only, but in our lives. It leads into practital 
piety; produces rectitude of heart, and subjection of our wills to 
the divine will ; disposes us to do unto all men as we would they 
should do unto us ; breathes gentleness and affability ; and teaches 
to cultivate love and harmony in society; and in short, inspires with 
love and good-will to the whole human family. 

And accordingly the all-wise Creator hath so inseparably con- 
jiected love to God with love to men; as well as faith with good 
works,-and piety with charity; that it is only when they are uni- 
ted, that they can be acceptable to hira. 

Languages and customs may greatly differ ; but pure devotion of 
the heart to its Maker, tiowing from unadulterated love, is one gnd 
the same in all nations. 

And as religion connects preparation for heaven with an honour- 
able discharge of the duties of active life, it therefore does not re- 
quire a retreat from the world; but to be useful in it. Yet it so far 
disengages from the spirit of the world, as to weaken its power of 
disturbing our tranquillity. But let it not be forgotten, that relig- 
ion is not stationary . to be valuable it must be progessivet'and the 
purity of a soul increases in proportion as the natural will becomes 
subjected to the divine will. 

This is the religion you must experience in order to attain real 
happiness : and to arrive at the saving knowledge of it, consult the 
Scriptures, more than the systems of men. But attend still more 
to that divine principle in your own hearts, which the aJ^'sTTeTiO 
the gentiles terms the grace of God ; and which he declares has ap- 
peared to all men, teaching to denj^ ungodliness and the world's 
lusts, and to live soberly, righteously, and Godly in this present 
world. _ 

Ihe same apogtle asserts, that " What is to be kno wn of Godi;; 
manifest vyit hin. And iha^ the manifestation ofthe spirit isgiven 
to ev ^ry nian to-proiit withal^' It is"this grace, manifestation of 
the spirit, or, as itHls alscTTn Scripture called, light, spirit of God," 
Christ within, &c. that shows mankind right- and wrong, checks 
them in their way to evil; reproves them while in the act of com- 
mitting it ; brings remorse, sadness and distress of mind u hen com- 
mitted. And it is by submitting to the teachings of this inward 
monitor,' that nif^nkind both learn and are enabled to fulfil their 
duty to God atnl unto one another. ' 

And now, in closin'^ these hint^, suffer mPito caution you against 
eontiriuing in a line of conduct thnt you feel condemned for , for if 
you do, and stifle the convictions you feel, inward reproofs will 
probably be less treqnent, and in time make little or no impression. 
Sad situation ! may you escape it by a ready submisiion to mani- 
fested duty, eveji in giving up gratifications, ihat art as " a ri^ht 
hand, or a right eye," is the sincere wish of one who jauch desires 
your present aad future happiness. 



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